Radon Testing Obligations for Quebec Landlords

Tenants often worry about indoor air quality and safety, and in Quebec landlords have responsibilities when radon risk is present. This guide explains what radon testing means for both renters and property owners, who must pay for tests, how results affect repairs and disclosure, and where tenants can find help. It covers practical steps a tenant should expect, how to read a test result, what forms or applications may be used at the Tribunal administratif du logement, and how landlords and tenants can work together to reduce radon exposure. If you are renting in Quebec, this article helps you know your rights, what questions to ask, and how to follow up when testing is needed.

Radon basics and health risks

Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas that can accumulate in basements and ground-level living spaces. Health Canada recommends taking action when indoor radon is 200 Bq/m³ or higher. Tenants should know that long-term exposure increases lung cancer risk and that testing is the only way to detect elevated levels. Short-term tests (a few days to three months) and long-term tests (over three months) are both available; long-term testing gives a more reliable annual average.

Landlord obligations in Quebec

Under Quebec rules and the Civil Code, landlords have a duty to provide safe, habitable housing; that can include arranging radon testing or corrective measures when risk is known or suspected^[1][2]. If a tenant requests testing because of concern, start by discussing options with the landlord; if you cannot agree, the Tribunal administratif du logement can hear disputes about repairs, safety and rent adjustments related to health risks^[1].

• Arrange testing or share results when health or safety concerns are reported.
• Complete necessary repairs or mitigation (for example sealing foundations or installing ventilation) when elevated radon is confirmed.
• Provide clear written disclosure of test results to tenants and document actions taken.
• Keep records of tests, contractor inspections, mitigation steps and communications with tenants for future reference.

For general tenant health guidance see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and for rights and duties see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. If you are looking for housing options while resolving an issue, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Testing, results and common forms

Choose a certified long-term radon detector where possible and follow manufacturer instructions. If a test shows 200 Bq/m³ or higher, mitigation is recommended. Practical steps after a high result include arranging mitigation, getting a post-mitigation test, and sharing results with tenants. When disputes arise about responsibility or cost, the Tribunal administratif du logement accepts applications and certain forms to start a request for intervention^[3].

FAQ

Who is responsible for radon testing in a rental?

Responsibility depends on lease terms and known risks; landlords generally must ensure habitability and may be required to arrange testing or mitigation if risk is known or raised by tenants.

What radon level requires action?

Health Canada recommends action at 200 Bq/m³ or higher; landlords and tenants should agree on mitigation steps when results exceed this level.

What can a tenant do if a landlord refuses to test or mitigate?

Document your request, keep copies of communications and test reports, and apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for resolution if the issue is not resolved informally.

How-To

1. Contact your landlord in writing to report concerns and ask for testing.
2. Request a long-term test kit or propose an accredited tester and agree on timing in writing.
3. Keep copies of test results, photos of the installation location and any communication about results.
4. If results are high, ask the landlord to arrange mitigation and follow-up testing to confirm improvements.
5. If the landlord does not act, file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement with your documents attached.

Help and Support / Resources

• Tribunal administratif du logement — tenant and landlord resources
• INSPQ — Radon information and testing guidance for Quebec

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1. [1] Tribunal administratif du logement
2. [2] Civil Code of Quebec (Code civil du Que9bec)
3. [3] Tribunal administratif du logement e2 forms and applications